Gohar Mahal

Gohar Mahal was built in 1820 by Qudsiya Begum, also known as Gohar Begum, the first woman to rule Bhopal. It stands on the Upper Lake behind Shaukat Mahal and served as both residence and seat of government, as well as a venue for music and dance under the Begums.

The three-storey palace combines Hindu and Mughal styles. Its Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas are closed to the public, but other parts display historical paintings, artwork, wooden objects and explanatory panels, and the building hosts art exhibitions and traditional fairs. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department oversees its restoration, and the lakeside entrance gives views over the water.